Credit: Sherry Prenevost
Team: Marie Thomas, Urmilla Coelho
Who: Rouge Park Hikers is a group of 35 volunteers that lead guided 2-hr nature walks for thousands of residents in the Rouge Park each year, rain or shine. They seek to inform visitors about best practices when hiking in the park and often provide guest speakers on their hikes on topics like archaeology, ornithology, and water conservation.
Why: As residents that live near Rouge Park, these volunteer hike leaders are thrilled to make a small difference in the lives of those who seek a wilderness oasis in Toronto's urban setting. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, a walk in the park can do wonders to de-stress. They are committed to sharing their love for the Park and hope to further educate and engage people from our community. Their hikes provide an opportunity to create increased awareness and understanding of the importance of protecting the diversity of nature and our quality of life, now and for the future.
What: Rouge Park Hikers will be reaching out to local families, especially newcomers to Canada, to come out for hikes each month. By reaching out to immigrant families they intend to provide them with an opportunity to integrate into the local community, learn about the fascinating Canadian flora and fauna surrounding their new home, develop an understanding for protecting the diversity of nature for generations to come, and develop an appreciation for how nature can enrich their lives.
